Casting careers decoded: Lessons from Heeramandi's Shruti Mahajan

Here are key insights from Shruti Mahajan, casting director of 'Heeramandi', on breaking into Bollywood, essential skills, and how to craft a rewarding career in casting direction

Becoming a casting director isn’t just about picking the right faces for the screen—it’s about understanding people, seeing beyond the surface, and collaborating to bring stories to life.

We got talking to Shruti Mahajan, the casting genius behind Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Heeramandi, and iconic titles such as Bajirao Mastani, Gangubai Kathiawadi, The Big Bull, Lipstick Under My Burkha, Padman, Mary Kom, Satyagraha, Ghoomer, Lust Stories 2, and many more.

She shared insights from her journey and tips for aspiring casting directors.

FROM HR DESK TO FILM SETS: A JOURNEY OF PASSION

Shruti Mahajan’s journey began far from the world of cinema. “Like many, I grew up in a household where academic excellence was highly valued,” she recalls.

But her heart was always set on the movies. "And I wanted to do my bit to help realise these magical worlds and stories."

After college, she started in HR at a bank but soon realised her true calling lay elsewhere.

“I made an unconventional career move and found my way into assisting in a casting cell at one of the bigger production houses in India,” says Shruti.

It was here that she learned the craft, working with like-minded professionals who fuelled her passion. From there, her solo journey began, landing landmark projects like RamLeela and Chakravyuh.

Collaborating with directors like Bhansali, Prakash Jha, Alankrita Shrivastava, and R Balki, Shruti carved her niche.

Today, with over 51 films and TV series to her credit, she has become a pivotal figure in Indian cinema.

THE CORE SKILLS EVERY CASTING DIRECTOR NEEDS

Casting direction may lack formal education pathways, but Shruti believes one skill stands out: empathy.

“A casting team meets so many talented individuals during a project. The ability to truly see, hear, and recognise someone for who they are is crucial,” she explains.

"It not only helps one relate to the artists and actors alike but also helps one understand the needs of a character to find the right cast to realise a director’s creative vision and deliver cinematic magic," she says.

Shruti also emphasises curiosity about people. “The best casting often goes against the type—when someone sees latent potential in an artist and helps set them free. That kind of magic can only happen when you care for an individual and receive them in their absolute and honest truth."

LEARNING THE CRAFT WITHOUT BREAKING THE BANK

For aspiring casting directors on a budget, Shruti offers practical advice: “The only real budget needed is your sweat equity and passion for movies.” She recommends assisting experienced casting directors to gain hands-on knowledge.

“Unfortunately there are no institutes where one can enroll and learn the art and craft of casting but luckily there are individuals -- Individuals who have dedicated a great deal of their time and life to learn and understand the craft and business of casting," she says.

She notes how important it is to start out in a space where you feel safe to share ideas, try new things, and contribute. Working with an experienced casting director, she says, not only gives you that environment but also teaches you the ins and outs of the craft, including helpful tips and common pitfalls.

And while it might not be a structured course but it is a boots-on-the-ground intensive learning process and if one surrenders to it -- god willing it very often is also a very rewarding one,” she says.

Another accessible way to learn? Volunteer to cast for student films or low-budget projects. “It’s a great way to understand the creative and logistical stages of casting while building a network.”

NAVIGATING NETWORKS AND FINDING YOUR TRIBE

Networking is often touted as a key to success, but Shruti sees it differently. “Good work speaks for itself, and I believe good work comes from an honest heart,” she asserts.

For her, finding like-minded collaborators is more about sincerity than strategy. "As long as one practices their work with dedication, honesty and an upbeat positive attitude, one will always find a supportive community. After all, like recognises like, doesn’t it?"

“Social media, film festivals, and live theatre are great places to meet creatives. Reach out to those who inspire you—after all, the world always needs more art and artists,” she advises.

THE MARKET TODAY: BIGGER DREAMS, BOLDER STORIES

Shruti Mahajan is optimistic about the future for casting directors. “With audiences returning to theatres and OTT platforms booming, filmmakers are dreaming bigger than ever,” she says.

"OTT platforms are bringing in stories and spectacles of such grand ambition that working on such projects like Mr Bhansali’s Heeramandi is a treat in and of itself. "

She is excited about how narratives are being explored now that otherwise might have never seen the light of day.

She highlights a heartening trend: more stories by and about women are being told. “As a woman, I’m proud to contribute to this shift in my own way.”

For newcomers, the timeless advice holds true: “Do good work, and help create good art and good content with good people.”

Casting direction is an art that blends intuition, empathy, and collaboration. Shruti Mahajan’s story proves that even unconventional paths can lead to fulfilling careers.

If you’re willing to put in the sweat equity, embrace curiosity, and learn from those around you, this creative field is yours to explore.